CLAY COUNTY, Fla. -- A Clay County shelter that helps abused women and children recently announced it would be helping out more four-legged friends as well.

Quigley House, a shelter that's helped women and children escape domestic violence for years, has started construction to expand their pet shelter so domestic violence victims don't have to leave their beloved pets behind when they need to escape to a safe place.

"The animal is just as much a victim," said Detective Annie Henderson.

"We've known of women who won't come in to shelter because of their pets," said Quigley House executive director Sharon Youngerman.

Detectives said animals are not only the victims of abuse but that they are sometimes used as leverage against people who are vulnerable.

In response, the Quigley House and the Clay County Sheriff's Animal Crimes Division have set out to change that by creating a safe place for victims and their animals.

"It's been a lot of work -- a labor of love," Youngerman said.

With each of the facility's 10 runs over 40 square feet in size, the shelter at the Quigley House is the biggest animal shelter of its kind in Florida.

Officials told Channel 4 the kennels are just stage one and that the center plans to build another shelter to house animals not used to living outdoors.

Those behind the project said they are depending on the public for help.

"Anything we can get. We don't turn anything anyway," Henderson said.

Officials with the Quigley House Animal Shelter said they are holding a charity poker run on Dec. 1.

The event costs $10, and the ride leaves from Cracker's Lounge in Middleburg. Those interested can call to register at 904-272-4620 or show up at 9 a.m.

Crackers is located at 1282 Blanding Blvd.